Each year, the INKAS® “Rising Star” Scholarship recognizes outstanding students pursuing careers in fields that shape the future of engineering and business.

The program was established to support ambitious individuals whose academic achievements, leadership potential, and forward-thinking ideas demonstrate the kind of talent that will drive meaningful progress across select industries.

For 2025, INKAS® is proud to announce the recipients of the “Rising Star” Scholarship in the categories of Engineering and Business. Each winner receives a $2,500 CAD scholarship, recognizing their academic dedication and their potential to make a lasting impact in their chosen field.

The “Rising Star” Scholarship reflects INKAS®’s commitment to education, innovation, and the next generation of leaders. As industries such as advanced manufacturing, defense technology, logistics, finance, and global trade continue to evolve, the need for capable, creative thinkers has never been greater.

2025 Engineering & Technology Scholarship Winner

Isaac VanWerkhoven

The Engineering & Technology “Rising Star” Scholarship has been awarded to Isaac VanWerkhoven of Langley, British Columbia. Isaac is an aspiring engineer who is driven by the joy of creating meaningful solutions through technology and using innovation to serve others.

Isaac’s essay explored how emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and cybersecurity could reshape the armored vehicle and defense industries. His ideas highlighted the potential for AI-driven scouting systems, autonomous support vehicles, and advanced sensor technologies to improve operational awareness and reduce risk to human operators. He also emphasized the importance of strong cybersecurity frameworks and fail-safe systems to ensure that increasingly advanced technologies remain secure and reliable.

His work demonstrated a thoughtful understanding of how engineering innovation must be paired with responsibility and resilience, qualities that are essential in high-impact industries.

2025 Business, Finance & Law Scholarship Winner

Ghazanfar Ali

The Business, Finance & Law “Rising Star” Scholarship has been awarded to Ghazanfar Ali of Lake Worth, Florida. Currently studying economics at the University of Florida, Ghazanfar brings a strong interest in the intersection of finance, security, and global markets.

In his essay, Ghazanfar examined how strategic leadership, disciplined operations, and targeted technological innovation can support sustainable growth and long-term trust within the armored vehicle and security industries. He explored how companies can strengthen client confidence through reliable production capabilities, efficient distribution strategies, and strong operational risk management.

Ghazanfar also discussed how advances in data-driven manufacturing and intelligent systems could further improve quality control and operational performance. His analysis reflected both a strong understanding of financial strategy and a thoughtful perspective on how innovation and disciplined management work together to support long-term business growth.

Supporting the Next Generation of Industry Leaders

The “Rising Star” Scholarship was created to recognize students who demonstrate not only academic excellence, but also a clear vision for how their work can shape the future. Engineering and business expertise play critical roles in the industries that support global security, advanced manufacturing, and technological progress.

Through this scholarship, INKAS® aims to encourage students to explore these fields and pursue ideas that challenge conventional thinking. Whether through the development of new technologies, the advancement of responsible business leadership, or the strengthening of global operational frameworks, the next generation of professionals will play a key role in shaping the world ahead.

The Future of INKAS® Rising Star’s

We are excited for the years ahead and look forward to reading about all the young, talented rising stars this year for the 2026 INKAS® “Rising Star” Scholarship.

INKAS® congratulates Isaac VanWerkhoven and Ghazanfar Ali on being selected as the 2025 “Rising Star” Scholarship recipients and looks forward to following their academic and professional journeys in the years ahead.

Students interested in applying for the next scholarship cycle can learn more here.